Pre-Garda & Security Studies
This is the perfect course for anyone inspired to join the Garda Síochána, defence forces, security organisations or those going on to further studies in criminology, law or related degrees.
| Award Name | Level 5 Certificate (Level 5 NFQ) |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | Major |
| Awarding Body | QQI |
| NFQ Level | Level 5 NFQ |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 5 Certificate (Level 5 NFQ) | Major | QQI | Level 5 NFQ |
Duration
1 year full-time.
Entry Requirements
All our Level 5 PLC courses are open to school leavers (Leaving Cert/ Leaving Cert Applied Students/A Levels/GCSE or equivalent), QQI Level 4 graduates and mature applicants. A QQI Level 5 award is a prerequisite to access a Level 6 programme.
Careers / Further progression
Higher Education Progression
• The Garda College, Templemore B.A. in Applied Policing Level 8
• Maynooth University Law and Criminology Level 8
• UCC Criminology Level 8
• TU Dublin DNA and Forensic Analysis Level 8
• GMIT (ATU Galway) Forensic Science and Analysis Level 8
• Maynooth University Arts – Criminology Level 8
• SETU Waterford Computer Forensics and Security Level 8
• LKIT (ATU) Law with Criminal Justice Level 7
• University of Ulster LLB Hons Law & Criminology
Career Opportunities
The course will allow successful candidates to seek employment in locations such as:
Security Guard
Security Technician
Retail Security Officer
Security Administrator
Sports Stadium Steward
Private Security
Door Security Staff
Apply for entry to An Garda Síochána, Prison Services and the Defence Forces
Further information
PLC Courses begin in September 2024.
International Students
Ó Fiaich Institute welcomes applications from eligible international students. Help and advice is available for international students at every step of the application process and continues after enrolment onto your chosen programme.
NEW LOW COURSE FEES FOR 2024
All courses now have a low course registration fee of €30. Make sure to confirm your place on a course by paying your registration fee.
PLC Maintenance Grant (SUSI)
SUSI grants are available to eligible students attending full-time approved courses at OFI.
Please visit www.susi.ie for eligibility criteria.
Back to Education Allowance (BTEA)
BTEA allows qualifying persons getting certain social welfare payments to get a back to education payment while participating in approved full-time courses in further education.
SOLAS Fund for Students with Disabilities
Funding is available to support students with disabilities, learning difficulties, medical conditions and special needs attending further education courses. This fund is administered by SOLAS and is disbursed on the basis of applications made by OFI on behalf of qualifying students.
REACH Fund
The aim of the Reach fund (formerly MAEDF) is to provide funding to support educationally disadvantaged learners in accessing and participating in community education. It aims to increase the participation of disadvantaged learners, particularly those who are undertaking literacy and skills programmes.
The fund has a strong focus on building the digital infrastructure of community education providers, including providing devices and software, and increasing their capacity to deliver learning. This fund is allocated by SOLAS and administered by LMETB.
Laptop Loan Scheme
All students can apply for the laptop loan scheme. This provides students with the use of a high specification device for the duration of the academic year for a very low refundable deposit. This scheme ensures students have access to a digital device and the opportunity for success.
Sports Scholarships
How to Apply
Students who wish to be considered for a Sports Scholarship for the 2024-2025 academic year must complete an online Application Form in October 2024. Application forms will be available on our ofi.ie website.
For any further information please contact Martin Corey on the email below.
mcorey.ofi@lmetb.ie
Interviews are held in March/ May/August with places offered on a first come basis
Apply online - Application weblink below
Ensure you apply as soon as possible. Online application process opens on 1st January.
Interview - Shortlisting process
Interviews are held in March/May/August with places offered on a first come basis. Places are offered based on interview performance and suitability for the course.
College Place - Secure your place
You will be notified of your offer by email and post.
Confirm your place by paying your registration fee of €30.
With specialist content around conflict resolution, criminology and legal studies, this comprehensive course will enhance both your study & career opportunities.
Learners will complete a combination of the following:
• Legal Practice and Procedures
• Conflict Resolution
• Criminology
• Communications
• Security Industry Procedures
• Work Experience
• Safety and Health at Work
• Outdoor Leadership and Safety
• Retail Studies
5M2110 - Security Studies
Certification: QQI Level 5 Security Studies - 5M2110.
Ó Fiaich Institute of FE
Dublin Road,
Dundalk,
Co. Louth,
A91 WK75
Tel: 042 933 1398
Email: info@ofi.ie
Social Media @ofidundalk